Cats is the ultimate test of the physical, mental, creative and balletical skills of an actor.
To succeed this show demands its cast to adopt the total persona of these extraordinary animals in mind, body and movement to bring total conviction and a absolute realism to its characters. A mind blowing task, but one this cast tackle with sheer gusto creating an evening nothing short of theatrical excellence.
Based on T.S. Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’ poems originally wrote for his godchildren in the 30’s it includes some unpublished ones, notably the tale of Grizabella the Glamour Cat, considered to be too sad for a children’s book. With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Cats is the longest-running musical in the history of the West End and Broadway and its easy to understand why.
A show that is literally danced through – this production has an special intimacy with its audience that points up its humour and its occasional wackiness created by felines literally popping up everywhere. With its high impact energetic pace the moments of pathos are never allowed to linger, quickly erased by lightening musical and mood changes .
Cats is the epitome of teamwork. Every member of the team playing an integral part in the story whilst dancing and singing their way through complicated, exciting and exhausting routines with feline grace and beautifully As Munkustrap,Matt Krzan, who I always consider the heir to Deuteronmy’s throne, is never off stage. Strong and powerful in the vocals he tackles a difficult and extremely physical role well. I loved the change from the strength and power he displays in his fight with Macavity and his disdain for Grizabelle to the gentle nuzzling of his mentor and hero Deuteronomy.
Marieanne Benedict captured the emotionally charged sadness of Grizabella, at times with tear jerking results. I was particularly impressed with her movement displaying the pain and ultimate disappointment by the limitations of an elderly and distraught old cat.
Some outstanding characterisation and fine vocals came from KevinStephen-Jones as the old and wise Deuteronomy – I really felt for him in that heavy costume! His quiet and sympathetic persona never leaves you in any doubt about his age or the engaging power and respect he commands from the Jellicle cats.
Greg Castiglioni as Gus The Theatre Cat, complete with shaking paw and a wonderful failing memory that’s reflected in his voice and his loveable, but overweight Bustopher Jones are pure gold pieces of character acting.
Cats is nearly an uninterrupted dance sequence and this show is made up of experienced dancers most of whom play two parts and all of whom are vocally strong.
From Mungojerrie (Joe Henry) and Rumpleteazer( Emily Langham) there’s a marvellous show stopping acrobatic duet that leaves the audience breathless. These are the finest pair of performers I have seen in these roles – and I’ve seen a lot. but not the duo.
What a lovely performance from Lucinda Shaw as the motherly Jennyanydots she nailed the character to a tee and her wonderful “gold digger style” tap dance was outstanding.
Cats is an inspirational show you could watch over and over again and never grow tired of it – it even inspired me to buy the book and add a third name my cats!
Cats runs at The Grand Theatre until Saturday 2nd July.